The Scottish Highlands are among the most iconic destinations in Europe. The best way to experience them is through a road trip.
Far from work and the everyday Greek reality, this journey felt like the only way to truly immerse myself in the Highlands.
The journey starts from either Birmingham or Manchester, with a comfortable rental car in top condition. Destination: the Scottish Highlands, with a tour of the most fascinating spots around its famous lochs. To make the transition more intriguing—from England’s calm politeness to Scotland’s dark and mysterious forests—consider beginning with a scenic drive along England’s Northeast coast. Charming seaside towns and small fishing villages dot the route, where life moves at a different pace. York Castle, the breathtaking views of Scarborough’s coast, and classic fish and chips from seaside shops are just a few unforgettable highlights of the region.
On the second morning, enjoy traditional scones with jam and a cup of Earl Grey tea in Whitby, a quaint North English village that feels like a retreat for the elderly. The long road north winds through the moors, culminating in a striking landmark: a massive stone inscribed with ‘SCOTLAND’ at the border. Suddenly, the lush green trees fade into darker shades as the temperature drops.
First stop: Edinburgh, a city straight out of a fairytale, with its majestic castle, charming houses, restaurants serving traditional haggis, and pubs boasting an extensive selection of malt whiskies.
The following day marks the beginning of the Highlands tour, exploring its legendary lochs. With world-famous Loch Ness as a key destination, the journey is planned accordingly. The landscape is dotted with stunning castles and Scots clad in traditional kilts. This region is home to numerous lochs, each unique and often guarded by imposing castles—but none as haunting as Loch Ness itself. As the sunset’s colors dance across the endless waters, for a fleeting moment, the legendary monster feels almost real.
On day four, venture west to the coastal town of Mallaig, where the scenery shifts dramatically. From rugged mountains reminiscent of Braveheart to the ships and white sandy beaches of Northern Scotland, the contrasts are striking. Cross over to the Isle of Skye, where the sheer tranquility and otherworldly landscape make the rest of the world fade away.
In Fort William, uncover a surprisingly lively nightlife in hidden pubs, where Scots belt out Bob Dylan and The Rolling Stones while sipping whisky unlike anything found back in Greece.
On the final day, take time to uncover the secrets of Scotland’s signature drink. Make a stop in Oban, home to one of Scotland’s most renowned malt whiskies. For the evening, unwind in Inveraray, one of Southwestern Scotland’s most peaceful villages, where the beauty of the Highlands and their serene lochs create the perfect farewell to your journey.
A journey through Scotland like this is perfect for those who love discovering new destinations by car. Breathtaking landscapes, warm-hearted locals, timeless legends, and rich traditions combine to create an unforgettable experience.
This is a free translation of an article originally written by Marianna Lazaridou.
